MEASURE TO PROTECT THE GIRL CHILD IN INDIA

The issue of girl child rights and its protection in India is a serious concern. Being home to more than one third of the 10 million child brides in the world, India has one of the highest numbers of girls forced into marriage before the legal age of 18 years. If one half of our society remain vulnerable to violence and

neglect, how will the country advance or progress?

There are various issues that plague the life of girl child in India. Right from their birth, they are subjected to discrimination, gender inequality, child sexual abuse, lack of access to education and are forced into child marriage.

Not only are they unsafe at home where they are victims of stereotypical attitude, but also in the learning environments. Ill-equipped schools that lack separate toilets for girls are one of the major deterrents for parents not willing to send their girls to study. According to India’s 2011 census, 53% households and 11% schools have no toilets for girls. The few girls who manage to attend school risk violence and abuse. The lack of safety deprives young girls of an opportunity to educate themselves and better their lives.

These are just few of the factors that lead to violence and abuse of girls in India. It can take on many forms like trafficking, rape. There are many organisations, private as well as those set up by the government that tackle this issue and try to make a difference in the girls lives. Through workshops and many projects that are dedicated for empowering the girl child in India, organisations try their best to change the lives of these children all over India.

You too can help further the efforts made by the organisations. At an individual level, you could report any instances of violence or neglect against girls in your area. Often young girls are employed as maids in houses and they are vulnerable to exploitation. You could contact the child helpline or get in touch with NGOs near you. The team would immediately direct you on what you could do to help the child. You could also volunteer with a NGOs in your city and help them directly with with an attempt to spread awareness and further girl child education and safety in urban slums and rural areas. Or you could choose to donate to and help fund numerous projects all over the country, dedicated towards helping change the lives of underprivileged girl children in India.

Your decision to help could help save a girl child. Do your bit today.